Men's Health

Men's Health Q & A

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What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, commonly known as ED or impotence, is the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex. Having difficulty with an erection from time to time isn't always a cause for concern, but it often is a source of embarrassment. Treatment may include focusing on an underlying issue, or medications and more direct treatments may be more appropriate.

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What are the risk factors for ED?

Male sexual arousal is a complex process involving interconnected body systems. Additionally, stress, anxiety and mental health concerns can cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. Sometimes a combination of physical and psychological issues cause erectile dysfunction. Some common causes and risk factors include:

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• Older age

• Tobacco use

• Diabetes

• Heart disease

• Obesity

• Prostate surgery

• Radiation treatment

• Injuries

• Some medications

• Drug or alcohol use

• Stress

• Anxiety

• Depression

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In order to prevent erectile dysfunction, we recommend healthy lifestyle choices and managing any existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and other chronic health issues. You should stop smoking, avoid alcohol and illegal drugs, exercise regularly, learn to reduce stress and find help for anxiety, depression and mental health concerns.

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How do I discuss erectile dysfunction with my doctor?

Short answer: However you're most comfortable. Just ask any question you need to in order to clarify your understanding. When you discuss erectile dysfunction with your provider at Daily Apple Clinic, they will review your current symptoms, medical history and other specific sexual problems such as premature or delayed ejaculation. You will review your medical history for diabetes, heart disease and other conditions that may be linked to your erectile dysfunction. Your provider will conduct a thorough physical exam and may recommend blood tests, urine tests, ultrasounds, or other imaging procedures in order to gather additional important information.

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What are common ED treatments​?

The treatment for ED generally starts with taking care of your heart and vascular health. Common treatments available for erectile dysfunction include:

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• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, including weight loss if you’re overweight and regular exercise, may help reduce ED symptoms without the need for further intervention. You may be asked to stop smoking and stop using drugs and alcohol. You will likely also discuss emotional issues such as relationship conflicts, depression and anxiety.

• Medications: Oral pills known as phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors are the most common. Brand names are Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. These medications increase penile blood flow and the rigidity of your erection.

• Hormone therapy: Low testosterone is a possible cause of erectile dysfunction. You may be tested several days apart in order to determine your levels of serum testosterone. If levels are low, your doctor may suggest injections, patches, or gels to boost testosterone in your body. 

• Injections: Penile injections with a very fine needle, done by the patient at home, can stimulate blood flow and provide a reliable erection for 20 to 30 minutes. Self injection lessons will be given in the doctors office prior to doing it on your own. 

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If you have hesitated to discuss erectile dysfunction with your provider up until now, please see a trusted and knowledgeable member of the Daily Apple Clinic healthcare team for assistance with this important issue.  Please call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.